The HTC First was released with a lot riding on it. It was HTC’s only other current gen device released, aside from the HTC One, and it was their second attempt at a Facebook phone. The partnership with Facebook apparently didn’t work out, as many say Facebook Home was supposed to be delayed to give the HTC First time to sell with an “exclusive” piece of software. However, both were released at the same time, basically dooming the First.

As of today, that seems very unlikely. The launch of the First in the UK has been indefinitely put on hold. Here is what an EE (British carrier) spokesperson had to say:

Facebook has decided to focus on adding new customisation features to Facebook Home over the coming months. While they are working to make a better Facebook Home experience, they have recommended holding off launching the HTC First in the UK, and so we will shortly be contacting those who registered their interest with us to let them know of this decision… we remain committed to bringing our customers the latest mobile experiences, and we will continue to build on our strong relationship with Facebook so as to offer customers new opportunities in the future.

It seems that the First hasn’t been as successful as they had hoped. However, we are unsure if they are holding off the launch until the product can be improved, or it’s pretty much dead without them saying so. Without Facebook Home, the First is actually a pretty nice device and we would be sad to see it go. However, that’s what HTC and Facebook get for lack of advertising and not building a coherent product.

About Dima Aryeh

Dima Aryeh is a Russian obsessed with all things tech. He does photography, is an avid phone modder (who uses an AT&T Galaxy Note II), and a heavy gamer (both PC and 360). He is also an avid fan of music, especially power metal. Follow him on Twitter @Haloruler64!

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